Hello, my name is Ari! I grew up in Pasadena, CA and have experienced navigating the public-school systems, EBT, Medi-Cal, living with low income, etc. I am multi-ethnic but grew up in a Mexican household with very traditional parents. I am aware of the importance of finding people in life you relate to, especially in healthcare and especially as an LGBTQ+ individual.
I have an educational background in psychology and the arts. I have certificates in Foundational Training for Public Health from the CDC, Menstruation in a Global Context: Addressing Policy and Practice from Columbia, Advocacy Training for Community Health Workers from Community Health Impact Coalition, and Enhanced Care Management (ECM) Training from LA Care Heath Plan.
I am currently a community health worker with St. John’s Community Health in South Central. I work with the RISE program, a program for people with a history of incarceration that need help reintegrating back into society. Our program helps patients with obtaining a California ID, access a legal team, benefits enrollment, workforce development, case management, and more. Due to our program operating with the clinic, we also help our patients navigate services like medical, dental, visions, behavioral health, pharmacy, HIV care, and our Transgender Health Program.
My experience includes assisting with social service navigation, disaster response, community education, and more across LA County. The main goal is always to help patients find support in their growth and joy.